Summary
The Supreme Court received a filing from the Justice Department arguing that a federal judge exceeded authority by ordering full funding of SNAP benefits during a government shutdown. This legal fight involves ensuring food assistance for about 42 million Americans, but complications have arisen due to government budget issues. The government shutdown may soon end, which could resolve some of the funding challenges.
Key Facts
- The Justice Department filed a brief with the Supreme Court about a federal judge's order to fully fund SNAP benefits.
- About 42 million Americans rely on SNAP, which provides food assistance.
- The legal dispute stems from a government shutdown affecting SNAP funding.
- Charities and cities have sued to ensure the government pays full SNAP benefits.
- The USDA has tried to manage SNAP funding using emergency funds.
- Supreme Court Justice Kentaji Brown temporarily paused a judge's order demanding full SNAP payments.
- The First Circuit Court of Appeals rejected a request to avoid fully funding SNAP.
- The ongoing legal battle might be resolved if the government shutdown ends, with legislative steps already in motion.
